Sphenoid Bone
Palatine Bone Anatomy
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Introduction to Palatine bone anatomy:
The two palatine bones (L., palatum “palate”) form portions of the hard palate, lateral walls of the nasal cavity, and floors of the orbits.
- These small, L-shaped, facial bones are located between the palatine processes of the maxilla bones and the pterygoid processes of the sphenoid bones.
- Each bone primarily consists of a horizontal plate and a perpendicular (or vertical) plate.
Markings of the Palatine Bone:
- Horizontal plate: A horizontal projection that articulates with the palatine process of the maxilla; forms the posterior portion of the hard palate (or roof of the mouth / floor of the nasal cavity). [Sagittal view/ Inferior view]
- Perpendicular plate (vertical plate): A superior projection that forms the posterior portion of the lateral wall of the nasal cavity. [Sagittal view]
- Greater palatine foramen (posterior palatine foramen): The largest opening along the posterior part of the horizontal plate; passageway for the greater palatine nerve and vessels. [Inferior view]
Have you been making any of these common anatomy learning mistakes?
- Lesser palatine foramina: one or more small openings located posterior to the greater palatine foramen; passageways for branches of the lesser palatine nerve. [Inferior view]
Test yourself:
Inferior view: [Show/Hide answers]
Sagittal view: [Show/Hide answers]
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